Middle East tourists to Cyprus grew 16.4 % in 2010

Published Date

With Cyprus figuring increasingly prominently as a preferred destination on the Middle East traveller’s wish list, the Cyprus Tourism Organization (CTO) is sending a 15-strong team of travel industry professionals on a promotional roadshow to the UAE in March.

The roadshow which will cover Dubai and Abu Dhabi is designed to further develop the time-tested business and travel links that exist between the two regions. The fact that Cyprus is growing increasingly popular as a leisure, incentive and business destination for the Arab world is borne out by the 16.4 per cent increase in the number of tourists from the region in 2010.

The roadshow will be followed by a reinforced presence of the Cypriot team at the upcoming Gulf Incentive Business Travel and Meetings exhibition (GIBTM) being held in Abu Dhabi from March 26 to 28. CTO views Abu Dhabi and Dubai as valuable source cities for the inbound tourist trade from the region and intends to highlight the inherent advantages Cyprus possesses.

“Lying in the sparkling blue waters of the Eastern Mediterranean and at the crossroads between Europe, Africa and Asia, Cyprus has always had an important strategic position throughout history. Nowadays, as the Eastern-most member of the European Union, the island is a perfect meeting place for decision-makers from all over the world,” said Vassilis Theocharides, Director CTO Middle East & Arabian Gulf Office.

He noted that an ideal all year round climate, beautiful scenery, traditionally hospitable people and a civilization that goes back 10,000 years help boost the island’s attractiveness. “For meetings, conventions, incentives or other corporate events Cyprus is ideally placed having hosted meetings of heads of government in the past and with over 600 top companies and organizations holding conferences here every year, Cyprus has all the facilities that even the most valued VIPs would need. With a reputation for quality and professionalism, as well as top class facilities and service, you'll find there's no more distinctive venue than Cyprus,” Mr. Theocharides added.

Cyprus is just a short haul flight away (three and a half hours) from most Arab cities and the island, though small in size, is big in variety, offering a range of climate types in close proximity that are extremely easy to access. The history and culture of the island’s ancient civilization is an even greater plus point.

On the social side too, Cyprus offers corporate event organizers a stable economy and a safe and secure European country that respects law and order.

The CTO invites all UAE travel agents to interact on a one-one basis with the Cypriot DMC's, travel agents and hoteliers as to prepare for the upcoming season. UAE travel agents can visit CTO’s partners at the following venues: Majestic Hotel (Dubai) – March 26 (11 am to 1 pm); Intercontinental Hotel (Abu Dhabi) - March 27 (11 am-1 pm).